Today my new project arrived- a much coveted matching numbers 1972 R75/5 with the toaster tank. This one is the SWB version and is in pretty good condition overall. The metallic gold “curry” colour and the toaster tank were popular in the US market (where this bike came from) and the side reflectors on the headlight mounts were also a US market requirement. Interestingly this bike has the lower euro-style handlebars which I prefer. The bike appears to have 43k miles on it (?143k).
The bike starts and runs and is complete save for the rear shocks which have been replaced with Hagon units. The original seat is in good condition and the paint, although a little rough has a nice patina. The headlight paint is in worse condition- very blistered with spot rust.
I have been in two minds about what to do with this bike. My original plan had been a fully restored to showroom condition r75/5 however this bike is in such good shape and has such a nice relationship with it’s past that now I am feeling more inclined to do a mechanical rebuild, selective refurb, heavy detail/clean and retain a sense of originality in the bike. Either way the following jobs will definitely be undertaken:
- ground up rebuild of engine and gearbox
- rebuild of rear drive
- clutch renewal
- rebuild of carbs
- rebuild of forks and steering
- reburb of headlight and speedo
- replacement of all cables
- all rubbers, seals and gaskets replaced
- swingarm bearings
- wheels respoked and new bearings
I am also considering some subtle but functional upgrades such as upgrading to a /6 electrical system. If anyone had any suggestions on any of these matters I would gladly hear your point of view- feel free to comment! Either way I love the new (old) bike!
